Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of The Bothy by Wildsmith, a stunning new spa nestled within the sprawling 438-acre estate of Heckfield Place in Hampshire, England. This tranquil haven, just an hour from London, embodies the spirit of serenity and rejuvenation, inviting guests to reconnect with themselves and the natural world.
The Bothy’s design is a testament to the estate’s rich history, seamlessly blending Georgian charm with modern elegance. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a beautiful walled garden, leading them to a 1,579-square-meter sanctuary that promises to reset both mind and body. The minimalist yet impeccable interior, devoid of unnecessary distractions, fosters a sense of calm and tranquility.
Created by Heckfield’s owner, Gerald Chan, and meticulously curated by Wildsmith Skin’s general manager Katherine Pye, The Bothy embraces nature’s rhythms. Forget the clichéd spa music; here, you’ll be serenaded by the sounds of the estate, recorded over the course of a week during lockdown. This commitment to natural immersion extends to the treatments themselves, drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape.
From regenerative workouts using farm equipment like milk churns to invigorating cold-water therapy in the serene lake, you’ll feel a sense of grounding and connection with the earth. To ensure an atmosphere of complete relaxation, the spa prohibits the use of phones, children, and alcohol. With a maximum capacity of 52 guests, you can enjoy a truly peaceful experience, avoiding the stress of back-to-back treatments.
The Bothy’s history is intertwined with that of Heckfield Place, a grand Georgian house purchased by American billionaire Gerald Chan in 2002. After meticulous renovation, the house opened to the public in 2019, showcasing Chan’s art collection and his personal touch. This same attention to detail is evident in the spa, from the fossil limestone floors and sinks to the antique Hampshire bricks salvaged from the original Bothy restoration and the 29,434 hand-laid tiles in the swimming pool.
The Bothy’s commitment to wellness is evident in its carefully curated treatment menu. Guests are encouraged to dedicate at least three hours per session, allowing ample time to fully embrace the concept of resetting. The Wildsmith Time, a 135-minute bespoke experience, exemplifies The Bothy’s philosophy. It utilizes Kinesiology principles and movement to identify and address your body’s needs. Essential oils, formulated to harmonize with your circadian rhythm, enhance the therapeutic massage. The treatment also incorporates craniosacral holds, abdominal massage, and foot zone reflex therapy.
After your treatment, take advantage of the post-treatment room, where a candle burns for 20 minutes, the minimum amount of time needed to allow the reset to truly sink in.
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the wild meadow through the expansive glass windows, one of the largest opening windows in Europe. Enjoy a dip in the hydrotherapy pool amidst the woods and savor the seasonal delights from the biodynamic market garden. The Bothy by Wildsmith offers an unforgettable experience, one that invites you to disconnect, unwind, and reconnect with yourself and the natural world.
Who can go?
The Bothy is open exclusively to hotel guests. Be sure to book your stay and allow ample time to truly savor the unique atmosphere they have created.
Booking details for The Bothy by Wildsmith:
Address: 82WX+6J, Hook RG27 0LD, United Kingdom
